It’s hard to make sense of the rationality behind how we choose/purchase our personal possessions. Though fashion trends are fast and furious — design trends tend to evolve more slowly.

Jeannie Sturdy (of Sturdy Design Co.) who has spent more than 10 years in the design industry (with an impressive portfolio of design accolades) agrees that while both are cyclical and ever-changing, her core principles remain the same.

“Invest in core pieces,” says Sturdy. “For personal style — good shoes, black pants, cashmere sweater, a nice wool coat, etc. Then for interiors, it’s the same thing. Invest in core pieces like a great sofa, bed, coffee table, dining table — the items that will last and you use most often.”

“Then take those core pieces,” Sturdy continues — “which are usually neutral in colour (black, tan, camel, white, and charcoal) and add in some personality, colour and trends with artwork, area rugs and décor accessories. For my personal style — I like to add in some statement eye glasses, necklaces, fun shoes — leopard print, etc. and great wool scarves.”

“Lastly,” Sturdy maintains, “hire a professional. In either design or style — works wonders and often costs less in the long run.”

If you are currently feeling like you are in a design ‘rut’ and don’t necessarily want to take on an entire renovation, Sturdy insists that cosmetic changes are always the easiest.

“I tell clients that paint is the biggest bang for your budget,” says Sturdy. “Paint refreshes the room — provides a different feel and mood altogether. Choosing the right light fixtures, wall paper, hardware and décor accessories. But most importantly, edit, edit, edit — less is more. Clear out what you are not using. Out of date or has no purpose. Just cleaning out a space can revive it!”

Here is more of Sturdy’s take on style:

Q: How would you define your personal style?

A: Classic eclectic. I like clean lines, neutral tones with a touch of whimsy added in.

Q: What is the most prized possession in your closet?

A: My bamboo handled red leather tote. I picked it up at Gucci’s first retail store (Florence 1920). Like so many of my favourite things, it comes with great memories of travel.

Q: Do you have a favourite designer, brand name or label?

A: COS from the UK, AllSaints, Rag & Bone and Eileen Fisher.

Q: What is your favourite brand of jeans?

A: Paige and American Eagle.

Q: Would you say your closet is streamlined?

A: Definitely organized with like-minded things together.

Q: How often do you purge your closet?

A: Every season — this helps me stay organized. If I have not worn it in a year, I tend to recycle it.

Q: What is your greatest extravagance?

A: Wallpaper — I kinda have a problem. I love it! I am about to change my powder room for the third time. Nothing beats looking through samples on a Tuesday night with wine at Mercato.

Q: What coveted item is currently on your must-have list for fall?

A: A long wool camel coloiured coat is my must have for this season.

Q: Are there any celebrities whose style you admire?

A: I like Rosamund Pike and Robyn Wright. Love her tailored style in House of Cards!

Q: What is your favourite magazine?

A: I have a guilty pleasure for US and People — mindless — especially on vacation — poolside.

A: Right now it’s Daisy Dream by Marc Jacobs. I like to change it up every time I need to re-purchase.

Q: What are your favourite shops in Calgary?

A: I am happy that Nordstrom has arrived in Calgary. Susie Gelo (the Women’s Designer Manager) is my style guru. I love working with her. Poppy Barley (pop up shops) for beautiful leather shoes and custom boots. Anthropologie has a great eclectic vibe. You can always find something for yourself or your home.

Q: What are your favourite restaurants?

A: Mercato (West Springs location), Divino Bistro — can never go wrong with this one. La Vita e Bella, Bocce on 4th Street — great food and I love how bright and happy it feels inside. Vendome Café for brunch.

Q: Brew or buy? What’s your coffee stop of choice?

A: Monogram Coffee — yummy non-fat lattes. It reminds me of an offbeat coffee bar in London but here it is right by the dog park in Altadore.

Q: Can you share a hidden lifestyle treasure in the city with us?

A: Sandy Beach with my family and our dogs. Uniquities Architectural Antiques for a special find and Millarville Farmers’ Market to see our special friend Karie Wylie and her Big Blue Moma collection.

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